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Saint Andrews, Scotland

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What It Is Like to Retire in Saint andrews

St. Andrews is an ancient town just to the north of Edinburgh on Scotland’s eastern coast.  The magnificent ruins of the cathedral and castle here hint at a long and historic past.  Many of the city’s early walls and "ports" (gates) remain as charming reminders of days gone by when visitors from the sea were often dangerous. Although to many St. Andrews is known as the birthplace and hallowed grounds of golf from its Royal and Ancient Golf Club, a frequent site of the British Open, it is also famous for its University of the same name, the oldest in Scotland. This school with its beautiful gothic campus in the center of town attracts students from around the world, including many from America. 

Where to Retire in Saint andrews and Home Prices

One can either choose to live in the town or in a small development in the area. Property values are very high, as this is an extremely desirable place to live. It is certainly possible to pay more than a million pounds, although many nice homes and flats are for sale from over 400,000.

What Is Special about Saint andrews

This town of 16,800 has an exceedingly high list of attractions relative to size. There is the ocean which is seen from much of town. The ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral and castle are quite amazing. The Old Course is the most famous golf course in the world, frequent home to the British Open.  A major Scottish university, the 3rd oldest university in the English speaking world.  For golfers, cultural buffs, and people who love the sea, St. Andrews could be tops.  There is an astonishing array of golf clubs in the area, most of which are quite inexpensive.  Plenty of cultural events like concerts and lectures at the university.  A nice beach to enjoy

What Is Not Special about Saint andrews

A not so great thing about retiring here is the fact that is quite expensive and busy. In peak times it is very crowded.

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Who Will Like Retirement in Saint andrews

Living as a retiree in St. Andrews would be fun - if you can afford it. Many people from England retire here. Golfers walk through town with their clubs over their shoulder, discussing their rounds on the way for a pint of Belle Haven.  Students, professors, and tourists are on the charming streets as well; they provide an air of excitement to this old city. Past the abbey you will find a small but active fishing port, and then beyond that great sandy beaches with kids playing in the sand and wet-suited surfers catching waves.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Tourism, golf, and the university dominate the economic scene.

Climate and Physical Environment

St. Andrews is in Fife on Scotland's east coast, just north of Edinburgh.  January is the coolest month with average temps between 0 and 10 (C.) and July temps in the 20s. There is a beautiful coast and harbor here; the waves at the town beach are good for surfing.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

There is the ByreTheater with frequent performances, but it is not the only performance venue. There are wonderful shops of all sizes and types. Frequent concerts and other events at the college. As both a college town and high end tourist destination there is quite a variety of interesting restaurants to choose from.

Crime

There is some crime related to tourism but because of the students and tourists on the streets at all hours one feels very safe here.

Medical facilities

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Transportation

There is good public transportation by bus to the rest of Scotland from here. Edinburgh International Airport is about an hour away.

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